The Road Safety Authority (RSA) in Ireland, in collaboration with An Garda Síochána and the Medical Bureau of Road Safety (MBRS), has launched its Christmas road safety campaign with a focus on tackling drink and drug driving. The campaign highlights new research revealing that 11% of drivers have driven after consuming alcohol in the past year, while 25% consider it acceptable to drive short distances after one drink. The MBRS reported alarmingly high levels of alcohol and drugs detected in driver toxicology tests, with blood alcohol concentrations sometimes exceeding legal limits by over eight times. Authorities urge motorists to stay sober and responsible during the festive season to prevent collisions and save lives.
Recent developments include the approval of alcohol ignition interlock devices (AIIDs), which prevent vehicles from starting if the driver has consumed alcohol, offering a promising solution to curb drink driving. Meanwhile, An Garda Síochána has increased enforcement efforts, conducting over 100,000 checkpoints in 2024 and arresting over 7,000 drivers for driving under the influence. Drug driving detections have risen by 11%, emphasizing the persistent risk posed by intoxicated drivers. In addition, the RSA has piloted public breathalyzer schemes in hospitality venues, educating patrons on safe driving limits, with 44% of testers underestimating their blood alcohol levels.
The campaign comes with a stark reminder of the consequences of impaired driving, as 165 lives have been lost on Irish roads this year. RSA Chief Executive Sam Waide and Assistant Commissioner Paula Hilman emphasized the need for collective responsibility, urging drivers to prioritize safety and ensure this holiday season is marked by joy, not tragedy.
Find more from RSA (Ireland, December 2024)
https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.jsWe’re here at MBRS, UCD, for the launch of our Christmas Campaign#RoadSafety #Christmas #DriveSafe pic.twitter.com/AACvW5LPCy
— RSA Ireland (@RSAIreland) December 2, 2024
Alcohol Awareness 